On Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:40:47 -0700, wrote:

On Thu, 15 Mar 2012 17:22:24 -0500, Ignoramus11693
wrote:

I have a bunch of tool boxes used by masons, which have some concrete
stuck on them.

I want to remove that stuff quickly and efficiently and it is a lot of
items (four huge Knaack field stations, Knaack gangboxes and many
concrete saws).

What is the best and easiest way/chemical etc thanks

I tried a power washer, it seems to work on some stains and,
miraculously, not on others.

i
When my chimney was built the stone mason used muriatic acid to wash
the mortar stains off of the stones. I think he diluted it but I don't
know how much. Anyway, the stones were all stained with mortar and
after he washed them with acid they were all very clean. Muriatic acid
will not damage the steel but will remove rust. Of course using any
acid will require good rinsing afterwards to avoid rusting.

Common muriatic acid sold in gallons is 32%, or 20 degrees baume. It
should be diluted 1:10 with water (3.2% solution). And use an alkaline
neutralizer (baking soda and water, etc.) to keep it from continuing
to etch the crete after you're done. Acid residue keeps finishes from
sticking, too.

--
Stay centered by accepting whatever you are doing.
This is the ultimate. -- Chuang-tzu